Analysis device and method for testing a sample

ABSTRACT

An analysis device and a method for testing a biological sample uses a cartridge that is received in the analysis device and valves of the cartridge being opened automatically.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an analysis device for testing abiological sample using a cartridge for testing a biological sampleusing a cartridge.

Preferably, the present invention deals with analyzing and testing apreferably biological sample, in particular from a human or animal,particularly preferably for analytics and diagnostics, for example withregard to the presence of diseases and/or pathogens and/or fordetermining blood counts, antibodies, hormones, steroids or the like.Therefore, the present invention is in particular within the field ofbioanalytics. A food sample, environmental sample or another sample mayoptionally also be tested, in particular for environmental analytics orfood safety and/or for detecting other substances.

Preferably, by means of the cartridge, at least one analyte (targetanalyte) of a sample can be determined, identified or detected. Inparticular, the sample can be tested for qualitatively or quantitativelydetermining at least one analyte, for example in order for it to bepossible to detect or identify a disease and/or pathogen.

Within the meaning of the present invention, analytes are in particularnucleic-acid sequences, in particular DNA sequences and/or RNAsequences, or proteins, in particular antigens and/or antibodies. Inparticular, by means of the present invention, nucleic-acid sequences orproteins can be determined, identified or detected as the analytes of asample. More particularly preferably, the present invention deals withsystems, devices and other apparatuses for carrying out a nucleic-acidassay for detecting or identifying a nucleic-acid sequence or a proteinassay for detecting or identifying a protein.

The present invention deals in particular with what are known aspoint-of-care systems, i.e. in particular with mobile systems, devicesand other apparatuses, and deals with methods for carrying out tests ona sample at the sampling site and/or independently or away from acentral laboratory or the like. Preferably, point-of-care systems can beoperated autonomously and/or independently of a mains network forsupplying electrical power.

Description of Related Art

U.S. Pat. No. 5,096,669 discloses a point-of-care system for testing abiological sample, in particular a blood sample. The system comprises asingle-use cartridge and an analysis device. Once the sample has beenreceived, the cartridge is inserted into the analysis device in order tocarry out the test. The cartridge comprises a microfluidic system and asensor apparatus comprising electrodes, which apparatus is calibrated bymeans of a calibration liquid and is then used to test the sample.

Furthermore, International Patent Application Publication WO 2006/125767A1 and corresponding U.S. Pat. No. 9,110,044 B2 disclose a point-of-caresystem for integrated and automated DNA or protein analysis, comprisinga single-use cartridge and an analysis device for fully automaticallyprocessing and evaluating molecular-diagnostic analyses using thesingle-use cartridge. The cartridge is designed to receive a sample, inparticular blood, and in particular allows cell disruption, PCR anddetection of PCR amplification products, which are bonded to capturemolecules and provided with a label enzyme, in order for it to bepossible to detect bonded PCR amplification products or nucleic-acidsequences as target analytes in what is known as a redox cyclingprocess.

European Patent Application EP 1 715 348 A1 and corresponding U.S. Pat.No. 7,871,575 B2 disclose a handling unit adapted for handling acartridge. The handling unit comprises a gripping device with twoclamping elements for clamping the cartridge in between. The clampingelements are moved by a stepper motor via a threaded rod.

European Patent Application EP 1 829 612 A2 and corresponding U.S. Pat.No. 6,495,104 B1 disclose a microfluidic device which can be placed in adetector instrument for operating the device. The microfluidic devicehas a flat and rectangular shape and is oriented horizontally when it isplaced in the detector instrument. Then, the lid, which is rotatablyattached to the detection instrument is closed and an assay isperformed.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,486,675 B2 discloses a chromatography apparatus with aninstallation chamber for receiving a cartridge which can be fluidicallyconnected to the apparatus. The apparatus further comprises a clampingmechanism for clamping the cartridge. The clamping mechanism is actuatedby a lever which is coupled to a cam. When a user rotates the lever, thecam moves a plunger towards the cartridge so that the cartridge isclamped.

U.S. Pat. No. 9,121,824 B2 relates to a fluidic and electrical interfacefor a microfluidic chip. The microfluidic chip cannot be directlyinserted into the interface, but it first has to be secured on a tray byclamps. The tray has a handle which is used to direct the tray into andout of rails of the interface. In use, the microfluidic chip is orientedhorizontally.

U.S. Patent Application Publication US 2015/0352545 A1 discloses anapparatus for analyzing a fluid sample in a cartridge. For processing,the cartridge is placed in a nest with alignment holes for receivinglegs of the cartridge. Before processing, a rotatable lid is closed andlatched over the cartridge.

In point-of-care systems, it is important that the analysis devices usedare constructed in a simple and robust manner and that a simple andreliable sequence of the test can be achieved.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The problem addressed by the present invention is to provide an analysisdevice and a method for testing a sample, simple, robust and/orcost-effective construction and/or a simple and/or reliable sequencebeing made possible or facilitated.

The above problem is solved by an analysis device and by a method asdescribed herein.

The proposed analysis device preferably comprises a receiving unit forreceiving, positioning and/or holding the cartridge and a connectionunit for mechanically, electrically, thermally and/or fluidicallyconnecting the cartridge.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the receiving unit canbe moved relative to the connection unit in order to hold the cartridgein a clamped manner between said receiving unit and said connection unitand/or to connect the cartridge to the connection unit and/or toposition the cartridge on said connection unit. This provides for asimple, robust and/or cost-effective construction. A simple and/orreliable sequence is also made possible.

The receiving unit is moved relative to the connection unit inparticular pneumatically and/or by means of a motor. This provides for asimple and cost-effective implementation.

Particularly preferably, both the receiving unit is pneumatically movedrelative to the connection unit, and valves and/or other apparatuses onthe cartridge or analysis device are pneumatically actuated. Thisprovides for a particularly simple, robust and/or cost-effectiveconstruction because in particular only one common pressurized gassupply, such as a compressor and/or a pressure storage means, isrequired to provide pressurized gas, in particular air.

The analysis device preferably comprises a housing which can be openedby means of a motor in order for the cartridge to be received and/orejected or removed. Particularly preferably, this is again carried outpneumatically. This makes a simple, reliable and/or cost-effectiveconstruction possible. A simple and/or reliable sequence when the sampleis being tested is also made possible.

The analysis device or a drive apparatus of the analysis devicepreferably comprises a gear mechanism or transmission, in particular atoggle lever mechanism, for moving the receiving unit and/or an actuatorunit relative to the connection unit. This provides for a simple androbust construction, it being possible in particular to produce evenhigh forces in particular for holding the cartridge in a clamped mannerand/or for opening or closing valves even when a pneumatic drive isused.

Particularly preferably, the analysis device comprises an actuator unitfor moving the receiving unit relative to the connection unit and/or foractuating or forcing open one or more valves of the cartridge. Thisprovides for a simple and robust construction.

According to a particularly preferred aspect of the present invention,which can also be implemented independently, in a first step, thecartridge is mechanically positioned and/or clamped in the analysisdevice and/or by the analysis device, the analysis device thenmechanically opening one or more valves of the cartridge in a secondstep. In particular, this procedure is carried out by means of a commondrive apparatus and/or necessarily in succession. This makes a verysimple and robust and/or cost-effective construction possible. A verysimple and reliable sequence is thus also ensured.

Particularly preferably, the analysis device comprises a common guideapparatus for movably and/or slidably guiding the receiving unit and theactuator unit. This in turn provides for a simple, robust and/orcost-effective construction.

Temperature-control apparatuses can preferably abut and/or be positionedagainst the cartridge and/or one or more cavities of the cartridge fromboth sides. In particular, both the receiving unit and the connectionunit each comprise at least one temperature-control apparatus which canabut and/or be positioned against the cartridge. This provides foroptimal thermal contact from opposing sides and thus allows thecartridge and/or a fluid provided in the cartridge, such as a sample tobe tested or the like, to be temperature-controlled in an optimalmanner. Thus, having a simple construction, a very reliable methodsequence and therefore a reliable test of the sample is thus possible.

The analysis device or the receiving unit preferably comprises a liftingapparatus for moving the cartridge in the vertical direction and/ortransversely and/or perpendicularly to the direction in which thereceiving unit is movable relative to the connection unit. As a result,the cartridge is received and ejected in a simplified and/or automatedmanner. This is conducive to a reliable sequence.

The term “analysis device” is preferably understood to mean aninstrument which is in particular mobile and/or can be used on site,which is designed to chemically, biologically and/or physically testand/or analyze a sample or a component thereof, this taking place inand/or by means of the cartridge. The analysis device controls thetesting of the sample in the cartridge. In order to carry out the test,the cartridge can be connected to and in particular received in theanalysis device.

The term “cartridge” is preferably understood to mean a structuralapparatus or unit designed to receive, to store, to physically,chemically and/or biologically treat and/or prepare and/or to measure asample, preferably in order to make it possible to detect, identify ordetermine at least one analyte, in particular a protein and/or anucleic-acid sequence, of the sample.

A cartridge within the meaning of the present invention preferablycomprises a fluid system having a plurality of channels, cavities and/orvalves for controlling the flow through the channels and/or cavities.

In particular, within the meaning of the present invention, a cartridgeis designed to be at least substantially planar, flat and/orcard-shaped, in particular is designed as a (micro)fluidic card and/oris designed as a main body or container that can preferably be closedand/or said cartridge can be inserted and/or plugged into a proposedanalysis device when it contains the sample.

The above-mentioned aspects and features of the present invention andthe aspects and features of the present invention that will becomeapparent from the claims and the following description can in principlebe implemented independently from one another, but also in anycombination or order.

Other aspects, advantages, features and properties of the presentinvention will become apparent from the following description of apreferred embodiment with reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a proposed analysis device and a cartridgereceived in the analysis device;

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the cartridge;

FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective front view of the cartridge;

FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective rear view of the cartridge;

FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view of the analysis device when thehousing is closed;

FIG. 6 is a schematic sectional view of the analysis device when thehousing is open and the cartridge is received in part;

FIG. 7 is a schematic sectional view of the analysis device when theentire cartridge has been received and the housing is closed;

FIG. 8 is a schematic sectional view of the analysis device, showing thecartridge in a test position and showing unactuated valves;

FIG. 9 is a schematic sectional view of the analysis device, showing thecartridge in the test position and showing actuated valves;

FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a receiving unit of theanalysis device; and

FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view of a connection unit of theanalysis device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the figures, the same reference signs are used for the same orsimilar parts and components, corresponding or comparable properties andadvantages being achieved even if these are not repeatedly described.

FIG. 1 is a highly schematic view of a proposed analysis devicecomprising an apparatus or cartridge 100 for testing an in particularbiological sample P.

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus orcartridge 100 for testing the sample P. The apparatus or cartridge 100in particular forms a handheld unit, and in the following is merelyreferred to as a cartridge 100.

The term “sample” is preferably understood to mean the sample materialto be tested, which is in particular taken from a human or animal. Inparticular, within the meaning of the present invention, a sample is afluid, such as saliva, blood, urine or another liquid, preferably from ahuman or animal, or a component thereof. Within the meaning of thepresent invention, a sample may be pretreated or prepared if necessary,or may come directly from a human or animal or the like, for example. Afood sample, environmental sample or another sample may optionally alsobe tested, in particular for environmental analytics, food safety and/orfor detecting other substances, preferably natural substances, but alsobiological or chemical warfare agents, poisons or the like.

A sample within the meaning of the present invention preferably containsone or more analytes, it preferably being possible for the analytes tobe identified or detected, in particular qualitatively and/orquantitatively determined. Particularly preferably, within the meaningof the present invention, a sample has target nucleic-acid sequences asthe analytes, in particular target DNA sequences and/or target RNAsequences, and/or target proteins as the analytes, in particular targetantigens and/or target antibodies. Particularly preferably, at least onedisease and/or pathogen can be detected or identified in the sample P byqualitatively and/or quantitatively determining the analytes.

Preferably, the analysis device 200 controls the testing of the sample Pin particular in or on the cartridge 100 and/or is used to evaluate thetesting and/or to collect, to process and/or to store measured valuesfrom the test.

By means of the analysis device 200 and/or by means of the cartridge 100and/or using the method for testing the sample P, an analyte of thesample P, or particularly preferably a plurality of analytes of thesample P, can preferably be determined, identified or detected. Saidanalytes are in particular detected and/or measured not onlyqualitatively, but, alternatively or additionally, particularlypreferably also quantitatively.

Therefore, the sample P can in particular be tested for qualitativelyand/or quantitatively determining at least one analyte, for example inorder for it to be possible to detect or identify a disease and/orpathogen or to determine other values, which are important fordiagnostics, for example.

The cartridge 100 is preferably at least substantially planar, flat,plate-shaped and/or card-like.

The cartridge 100 preferably comprises an in particular at leastsubstantially planar, flat, plate-shaped and/or card-like main body orsupport 101, the main body or support 101 in particular being made ofand/or injection-molded from plastics material, particularly preferablypolypropylene.

The cartridge 100 preferably comprises at least one film or cover 102for covering the main body 101 and/or cavities and/or channels formedtherein at least in part, in particular on the front, and/or for formingvalves or the like, as shown by dashed lines in FIG. 2.

The cartridge 100 and/or the main body 101 thereof, in particulartogether with the cover 102, preferably forms and/or comprises a fluidicsystem 103, referred to in the following as the fluid system 103.

The cartridge 100, the main body 101 and/or the fluid system 103 arepreferably at least substantially vertically oriented in the operatingposition and/or during the test, in particular in the analysis device200, as shown schematically in FIG. 1. In particular, the surfaceextension or main plane H of the cartridge 100 thus extends at leastsubstantially vertically in the operating position.

The cartridge 100 and/or the fluid system 103 preferably comprises aplurality of cavities, in particular at least one receiving cavity 104,at least one metering cavity 105, at least one intermediate cavity 106,at least one mixing cavity 107, at least one storage cavity 108, atleast one reaction cavity 109, at least one intermediatetemperature-control cavity 110 and/or at least one collection cavity111, a plurality of cavities preferably being fluidically interconnectedin particular by a plurality of channels.

Within the meaning of the present invention, channels are preferablyelongate forms for conducting a fluid in a main flow direction, theforms preferably being closed transversely, in particularperpendicularly, to the main flow direction and/or longitudinalextension, preferably on all sides.

In particular, the main body 101 comprises elongate notches, recesses,depressions or the like, which are closed at the sides by the cover 102and form channels within the meaning of the present invention.

Within the meaning of the present invention, cavities or chambers arepreferably formed by recesses, depressions or the like in the cartridge100 or main body 101, which are closed or covered by the cover 102, inparticular at the sides. The volume or space enclosed by each cavity ispreferably fluidically linked, in particular to the fluid system 103, bymeans of channels.

In particular, within the meaning of the present invention, a cavitycomprises at least two openings for the inflow and/or outflow of fluids.

Within the meaning of the present invention, cavities preferably have alarger diameter and/or flow cross section than channels, preferably byat least a factor of 2, 3 or 4. In principle, however, cavities may insome cases also be elongate, in a similar manner to channels.

The cartridge 100 and/or the fluid system 103 also preferably comprisesat least one pump apparatus 112 and/or at least one sensor arrangementor sensor apparatus 113.

In the example shown, the cartridge 100 or the fluid system 103preferably comprises two metering cavities 105A and 105B, a plurality ofintermediate cavities 106A to 106G, a plurality of storage cavities 108Ato 108E and/or a plurality of reaction cavities 109, which canpreferably be loaded separately from one another, in particular a firstreaction cavity 109A, a second reaction cavity 109B and an optionalthird reaction cavity 109C, as can be seen in FIG. 2.

The metering cavities 105 are preferably designed to receive, totemporarily store and/or to meter the sample P, and/or to pass on saidsample in a metered manner. Particularly preferably, the meteringcavities 105 have a diameter which is larger than that of the (adjacent)channels.

In the initial state of the cartridge 100 or when at the factory, thestorage cavities 108 are preferably filled at least in part, inparticular with a liquid such as a reagent, solvent or wash buffer.

The collection cavity 111 is preferably designed to receive largerquantities of fluids that are in particular used for the test, such assample residues or the like. Preferably, in the initial state or when atthe factory, the collection cavity 111 is empty or filled with gas, inparticular air. The volume of the collection cavity 111 corresponds toor exceeds preferably the (cumulative) volume of the storagecavity/cavities 108 or the liquid content thereof and/or the volume ofthe receiving cavity 104 or the sample P received.

The reaction cavity/cavities 109 is/are preferably designed to allow asubstance located in the reaction cavity 109 to react when an assay isbeing carried out.

The reaction cavity/cavities 109 is/are used in particular to carry outan amplification reaction, in particular PCR, or several, preferablydifferent, amplification reactions, in particular PCRs. It is preferableto carry out several, preferably different, PCRs, i.e., PCRs havingdifferent primer combinations or primer pairs, in parallel and/orindependently and/or in different reaction cavities 109.

“PCR” stands for polymerase chain reaction and is a molecular-biologicalmethod by means of which certain analytes, in particular portions of RNAor RNA sequences or DNA or DNA sequences, of a sample P are amplified,preferably in several cycles, using polymerases or enzymes, inparticular in order to then test and/or detect the amplificationproducts or nucleic-acid products. If RNA is intended to be testedand/or amplified, before the PCR is carried out, a cDNA is producedstarting from the RNA, in particular using reverse transcriptase. ThecDNA is used as a template for the subsequent PCR.

The amplification products, target nucleic-acid sequences and/or otherportions of the sample P produced in one or more reaction cavities 109can be conducted or fed to the connected sensor arrangement or sensorapparatus 113, in particular by means of the pump apparatus 112.

The sensor arrangement or sensor apparatus 113 is used in particular fordetecting, particularly preferably qualitatively and/or quantitativelydetermining, the analyte or analytes of the sample P, in this caseparticularly preferably the target nucleic-acid sequences and/or targetproteins as the analytes. Alternatively or additionally, however, othervalues may also be collected and/or determined.

The sensor apparatus 113 preferably comprises a sensor array 113A inorder for it to be possible to determine or detect in particular aplurality of analytes.

In particular, the sensor apparatus 113 or sensor array 113A comprisescapture molecules (not shown) in order for it to be possible to bondanalytes and/or amplification products and subsequently detect, identifyor determine said analytes and/or amplification products in a detectionprocess.

Preferably, electrochemical detection is carried out.

The cartridge 100, the main body 101 and/or the fluid system 103preferably comprise a plurality of channels 114 and/or valves 115, asshown in FIG. 2.

By means of the channels 114 and/or valves 115, the cavities 104 to 111,the pump apparatus 112 and/or the sensor arrangement or sensor apparatus113 can be temporarily and/or permanently fluidically interconnectedand/or fluidically separated from one another, as required and/oroptionally or selectively, in particular such that they are controlledby the analysis device 200.

The cavities 104 to 111 are preferably each fluidically linked orinterconnected by a plurality of channels 114. Particularly preferably,each cavity is linked or connected by at least two associated channels114, in order to make it possible for fluid to fill, flow through and/ordrain from the respective cavities as required.

The fluid transport or the fluid system 103 is preferably not based oncapillary forces, or is not exclusively based on said forces, but inparticular is essentially based on the effects of gravity and/or pumpingforces and/or compressive forces and/or suction forces that arise, whichare particularly preferably generated by the pump or pump apparatus 112.In this case, the flows of fluid or the fluid transport and the meteringare controlled by accordingly opening and closing the valves 115 and/orby accordingly operating the pump or pump apparatus 112, in particularby means of a pump drive 202 of the analysis device 200.

Preferably, each of the cavities 104 to 110 has an inlet at the top andan outlet at the bottom in the operating position. Therefore, ifrequired, only liquid from the respective cavities can be removed viathe outlet.

In the operating position, the liquids from the respective cavities arepreferably removed, in particular drawn out, via the outlet that is atthe bottom in each case, it preferably being possible for gas or air toflow and/or be pumped into the respective cavities via the inlet that isin particular at the top. In particular, relevant vacuums in thecavities can thus be prevented or at least minimized when conveying theliquids.

In particular, the cavities, particularly preferably the storagecavity/cavities 108, the mixing cavity 107 and/or the receiving cavity104, are each dimensioned and/or oriented in the normal operatingposition such that, when said cavities are filled with liquid, bubblesof gas or air that may potentially form rise upwards in the operatingposition, such that the liquid collects above the outlet withoutbubbles. However, other solutions are also possible here.

The receiving cavity 104 preferably comprises a connection 104A forintroducing the sample P. In particular, the sample P may for example beintroduced into the receiving cavity 104 and/or cartridge 100 via theconnection 104A by means of a pipette, syringe or other instrument.

The receiving cavity 104 preferably comprises an inlet 104B, an outlet104C and an optional intermediate connection 104D, it preferably beingpossible for the sample P or a portion thereof to be removed and/orconveyed further via the outlet 104C and/or the optional intermediateconnection 104D. Gas, air or another fluid can flow in and/or be pumpedin via the inlet 104B, as already explained.

Preferably, the sample P or a portion thereof can be removed, optionallyand/or depending on the assay to be carried out, via the outlet 104C orthe optional intermediate connection 104D of the receiving cavity 104.In particular, a supernatant of the sample P, such as blood plasma orblood serum, can be conducted away or removed via the optionalintermediate connection 104D, in particular for carrying out the proteinassay.

Preferably, at least one valve 115 is assigned to each cavity, the pumpapparatus 112 and/or the sensor apparatus 113 and/or is arrangedupstream of the respective inlets and/or downstream of the respectiveoutlets.

Preferably, the cavities 104 to 111 or sequences of cavities 104 to 111,through which fluid flows in series or in succession for example, can beselectively released and/or fluid can selectively flow there-through bythe assigned valves 115 being actuated, and/or said cavities can befluidically connected to the fluid system 103 and/or to other cavities.

In particular, the valves 115 are formed by the main body 101 and thefilm or cover 102 and/or are formed therewith and/or are formed inanother manner, for example by or having additional layers, depressionsor the like.

Particularly preferably, one or more valves 115A are provided which arepreferably tightly closed initially or when in storage, particularlypreferably in order to seal liquids or liquid reagents F, located in thestorage cavities 108, and/or the fluid system 103 from the openreceiving cavity 104 in a storage-stable manner.

Preferably, an initially closed valve 115A is arranged upstream anddownstream of each storage cavity 108. Said valves are preferably onlyopened, in particular automatically, when the cartridge 100 is actuallybeing used and/or during or after inserting the cartridge 100 into theanalysis device 200 and/or for carrying out the assay.

A plurality of valves 115A, in particular three valves in this case, arepreferably assigned to the receiving cavity 104, in particular if theintermediate connection 104D is provided in addition to the inlet 104Band the outlet 104C. Depending on the use, in addition to the valve 115Aon the inlet 104B, then preferably only the valve 115A either at theoutlet 104C or at the intermediate connection 104D is opened.

The valves 115A assigned to the receiving cavity 104 seal the fluidsystem 103 and/or the cartridge 100 in particular fluidically and/or ina gas-tight manner, preferably until the sample P is introduced and/orthe receiving cavity 104 or the connection 104A of the receiving cavity104 is closed.

As an alternative or in addition to the valves 115A (which are initiallyclosed), one or more valves 115B are preferably provided which are notclosed in a storage-stable manner and/or which are open initially or inan inoperative position, in an initial state or when the cartridge 100is not inserted into the analysis device 200, and/or which can be closedby actuation. These valves 115B are used in particular to control theflows of fluid during the test.

The cartridge 100 is preferably designed as a microfluidic card and/orthe fluid system 103 is preferably designed as a microfluidic system. Inthe present invention, the term “microfluidic” is preferably understoodto mean that the respective volumes of individual cavities, some of thecavities or all of the cavities 104 to 111 and/or channels 114 are,separately or cumulatively, less than 5 ml or 2 ml, particularlypreferably less than 1 ml or 800 μl, in particular less than 600 μl or300 μl, more particularly preferably less than 200 μl or 100 μl.

Particularly preferably, a sample P having a maximum volume of 5 ml, 2ml or 1 ml can be introduced into the cartridge 100 and/or the fluidsystem 103, in particular the receiving cavity 104.

Reagents and liquids which are preferably introduced or provided beforethe test in liquid form as liquids or liquid reagents F and/or in dryform as dry reagents S are required for testing the sample P, asindicated in the schematic view according to FIG. 2 by reference signsF1 to F5 and S1 to S10.

Furthermore, other liquids F, in particular in the form of a washbuffer, solvent for dry reagents S and/or a substrate S, for example inorder to form detection molecules and/or a redox system, are alsopreferably required for the test, the detection process and/or for otherpurposes, and are in particular provided in the cartridge 100, i.e., arelikewise introduced before use, in particular before delivery. At somepoints in the following, a distinction is not made between liquidreagents and other liquids, and therefore the respective explanationsare accordingly also mutually applicable.

The cartridge 100 preferably contains all the reagents and liquidsrequired for pretreating the sample P and/or for carrying out the testor assay, in particular for carrying out one or more amplificationreactions or PCRs, and therefore, particularly preferably, it is onlynecessary to receive the optionally pretreated sample P.

The cartridge 100 or the fluid system 103 preferably comprises a bypass114A that can optionally be used, in order for it to be possible, ifnecessary, to conduct or convey the sample P or components thereof pastthe reaction cavities 109 and/or, by bypassing the optional intermediatetemperature-control cavity 110, also directly to the sensor apparatus113.

The cartridge 100, the fluid system 103 and/or the channels 114preferably comprise sensor portions 116 or other apparatuses fordetecting liquid fronts and/or flows of fluid.

It is noted that various components, such as the channels 114, thevalves 115, in particular the valves 115A that are initially closed andthe valves 115E that are initially open, and the sensor portions 116 inFIG. 2 are, for reasons of clarity, only labelled in some cases, but thesame symbols are used in FIG. 2 also for each of these components.

The collection cavity 111 is preferably used for receiving excess orused reagents and liquids and volumes of the sample, and/or forproviding gas or air in order to empty individual cavities and/orchannels. In the initial state, the collection cavity 111 is preferablyfilled solely with gas, in particular air.

In particular, the collection cavity 111 can optionally be connected toindividual cavities and channels 114 or other apparatuses fluidically inorder to remove reagents and liquids from said cavities, channels orother apparatuses and/or to replace said reagents and liquids with gasor air. The collection cavity 111 is preferably given appropriate largedimensions.

FIG. 3 is a perspective front view of the cartridge 100 and FIG. 4 is aperspective rear view thereof, i.e. of the back 100B thereof.

In order to achieve particularly good storage stability of the liquidreagent(s) F, the cover 102 is preferably produced from or additionallycovered by an inorganic material, in particular metal, particularlypreferably aluminum, preferably in the region of at least one storagecavity 108. This is preferably achieved by applying or adhesivelybonding a piece of material or film sheet, consisting of or producedfrom the corresponding material, as an additional cover 102A in theregion of the respective storage cavities 108, as shown schematically inFIG. 3.

As shown in FIG. 4, the sensor apparatus 113 preferably compriseselectrical contacts 113E for electrically connecting the cartridge 100and/or sensor apparatus 113.

The contacts 113E are arranged in particular on the flat side and/orback and/or around a central region 113H.

The cartridge 100 and/or the main body 101 preferably comprises areinforced or angled edge 121 and/or a reinforcing rib 122, particularlypreferably on the back 100B, as shown schematically in FIG. 4.

The cartridge 100 or the main body 101 preferably comprises a gripportion 123 in order for it to be possible to optimally grip and/or holdthe cartridge 100 by hand. The grip portion 123 is in particulararranged and/or formed or integrally molded on a longitudinal side.

The edge 121 and/or the reinforcing rib 122 are used in particular toprovide reinforcement for the cartridge 100 or the main body 101transversely to the surface extension or plate plane or flat side orback 100B. This is particularly advantageous for making it possible tomount or clamp the cartridge 100 in the analysis device 200 in asdefined a manner as possible. The increased rigidity makes it possible,for example, for the sensor arrangement or sensor apparatus 113 to becontacted in a simple or more defined manner and/or improves the effecton the pump apparatus 112.

The cartridge 100 and/or the main body 101 preferably has, in the regionof the reaction cavity/cavities 109, a region of reduced wall thickness,a weakened portion or a depression 101E in order to allow or ensure thatthe reaction cavity/cavities 109 and/or the fluids located thereinis/are thermally coupled to the associated reaction temperature-controlapparatus 204A in an effective or improved manner.

The cartridge 100 or the main body 101 preferably comprises at least onepositioning portion 126, in particular two positioning portions 126 inthe example shown, for mounting and/or positioning the cartridge 100 ina defined manner, in particular in the analysis device 200 while asample P is being tested, as shown in FIG. 4.

The positioning portion 126 is in particular integrally molded on orformed in one piece with the main body 101.

The positioning portion 126 preferably projects from a flat side, inthis case the back 100B, or the plate plane of the cartridge 100 or mainbody 101.

The positioning portion 126 is in particular cylindrical or hollowcylindrical and/or conical, preferably on the inside and/or outside.

The outside of the positioning portion 126 preferably tapers towards thefree end or is conical. This is conducive to simple production and/orcentring of the cartridge 100 in the analysis device 200.

The inside of the positioning portion 126 is preferably conical orwidens towards the free end. This is conducive to simple productionand/or centering of the cartridge 100 in the analysis device 200.

The two positioning portions 126 are preferably arranged in a line thatis parallel to a side of the cartridge 100, in particular in a centralline that is transverse to a longitudinal side of the cartridge 100.

In particular, in the view according to FIG. 4, one positioning portion126 is arranged in the region of the lower longitudinal side of thecartridge 100. The other positioning portion 126 is arranged inparticular in the vicinity of the optional reinforcing rib 122.

The cartridge 100 or the main body 101 preferably comprises a fluidicand/or pneumatic connection 129. In the example shown, preferably aplurality of connections or two connections 129 are provided.

The connection 129 or each connection 129 is used in particular forfluidically or pneumatically supplying an associated manipulatingapparatus or for actuating said manipulating apparatus.

In the example shown, the connection 129 on the left-hand side isassigned in particular to the pump apparatus 112 and is preferably usedto pneumatically reset a peristaltic pump formed by the pump apparatus112.

In the example shown, the connection 129 on the right-hand side ispreferably assigned to the sensor apparatus 113 and is used inparticular to pneumatically actuate a sensor cover (not shown) in orderfor it to be possible, if necessary, to make the sensor compartmentabove the sensor array 113A smaller, in particular during detection.

Each connection 129 is preferably formed by a corresponding opening inthe main body 101.

A card-side seal 129C, formed in particular by a suitable layer or filmor the like, is preferably assigned to each connection 129. However,other technical solutions are also possible.

The connection 104A of the receiving cavity 104 can be closed after thesample P has been received. The cartridge 100 preferably comprises aclosure element 130 for this purpose.

In particular, the connection 104A can be closed in a liquid-tight andparticularly preferably also gas-tight manner by the closure element130. In particular, a closed fluid circuit can thus be formed, with thereceiving cavity 104 being included. In particular, once the assignedvalves 115A at the inlet 104B, outlet 104C and/or intermediateconnection 104D have been opened, the receiving cavity 104 thus formspart of the fluid system 103 of the cartridge 100, wherein the fluidsystem is preferably closed or can be closed by the closure element 130.

Once the sample P has been introduced into the receiving cavity 104 andthe connection 104A has been closed, the cartridge 100 can be insertedinto and/or received in the proposed analysis device 200 in order totest the sample P, as shown in FIG. 1.

The analysis device 200 preferably comprises a mount or receptacle 201for mounting and/or receiving the cartridge 100.

Preferably, the cartridge 100 and/or the fluid system 103 isfluidically, in particular hydraulically, separated or isolated from theanalysis device 200. In particular, the cartridge 100 forms a preferablyindependent and in particular closed or sealed fluidic or hydraulicsystem 103 for the sample P and the reagents and other liquids. In thisway, the analysis device 200 does not come into direct contact with thesample P and/or other fluids and/or reagents and can in particular bereused for another test without being disinfected and/or cleaned first.

It is however provided that the analysis device 200 is connected orcoupled mechanically, electrically, thermally and/or fluidically and/orpneumatically to the cartridge 100.

In particular, the analysis device 200 is designed to have a mechanicaleffect, in particular for actuating the pump apparatus 112 and/or thevalves 115, and/or to have a thermal effect, in particular fortemperature-controlling the reaction cavity/cavities 109 and/or theintermediate temperature-control cavity 110.

In addition, the analysis device 200 can preferably be pneumaticallyconnected to the cartridge 100, in particular in order to actuateindividual apparatuses, and/or can be electrically connected to thecartridge 100, in particular in order to collect and/or transmitmeasured values, for example from the sensor apparatus 113 and/or sensorportions 116.

The analysis device 200 preferably comprises a pump drive 202, the pumpdrive 202 in particular being designed for mechanically actuating thepump apparatus 112.

The analysis device 200 preferably comprises a connection apparatus 203for in particular electrically and/or thermally connecting the cartridge100 and/or the sensor arrangement or sensor apparatus 113.

As shown in FIG. 1, the connection apparatus 203 preferably comprises aplurality of electrical contact elements 203A, the cartridge 100, inparticular the sensor arrangement or sensor apparatus 113, preferablybeing electrically connected or connectable to the analysis device 200by the contact elements 203A.

The analysis device 200 preferably comprises one or moretemperature-control apparatuses 204 for temperature-controlling thecartridge 100 and/or having a thermal effect on the cartridge 100, inparticular for heating and/or cooling, the temperature-controlapparatus(es) 204 (each) preferably comprising or being formed by aheating resistor or a Peltier element.

Preferably, individual temperature-control apparatuses 204, some ofthese apparatuses or all of these apparatuses can be positioned againstthe cartridge 100, the main body 101, the cover 102, the sensorarrangement, sensor apparatus 113 and/or individual cavities and/or canbe thermally coupled thereto and/or can be integrated therein and/or canbe operated or controlled in particular electrically by the analysisdevice 200. In the example shown, in particular the temperature-controlapparatuses 204A, 204B and/or 204C are provided.

The analysis device 200 preferably comprises one or more actuators 205for actuating the valves 115. Particularly preferably, different (typesor groups of) actuators 205A and 205B are provided which are assigned tothe different (types or groups of) valves 115A and 115B for actuatingeach of said valves, respectively.

The analysis device 200 preferably comprises one or more sensors 206. Inparticular, fluid sensors 206A are assigned to the sensor portions 116and/or are designed or intended to detect liquid fronts and/or flows offluid in the fluid system 103.

Particularly preferably, the fluid sensors 206A are designed to measureor detect, in particular in a contact-free manner, for example opticallyand/or capacitively, a liquid front, flow of fluid and/or the presence,the speed, the mass flow rate/volume flow rate, the temperature and/oranother value of a fluid in a channel and/or a cavity, in particular ina respectively assigned sensor portion 116, which is in particularformed by a planar and/or widened channel portion of the fluid system103.

Alternatively, or additionally, the analysis device 200 preferablycomprises one or more (other or additional) sensors 206B for detectingthe ambient temperature, internal temperature, atmospheric humidity,position, and/or alignment, for example by means of a GPS sensor, and/orthe orientation and/or inclination of the analysis device 200 and/or thecartridge 100.

The analysis device 200 preferably comprises a control apparatus 207, inparticular comprising an internal clock or time base for controlling thesequence of a test or assay and/or for collecting, evaluating and/oroutputting or providing measured values in particular from the sensorapparatus 113, and/or from test results and/or other data or values.

The control apparatus 207 preferably controls or feedback controls thepump drive 202, the temperature-control apparatuses 204 and/or actuators205, in particular taking into account or depending on the desired testand/or measured values from the sensor arrangement or sensor apparatus113 and/or sensors 206.

Optionally, the analysis device 200 comprises an input apparatus 208,such as a keyboard, a touch screen or the like, and/or a displayapparatus 209, such as a screen.

The analysis device 200 preferably comprises at least one interface 210,for example for controlling, for communicating and/or for outputtingmeasured data or test results and/or for linking to other devices, suchas a printer, an external power supply or the like. This may inparticular be a wired or wireless interface 210.

The analysis device 200 preferably comprises a power supply 211 forproviding electrical power, preferably a battery or an accumulator,which is in particular integrated and/or externally connected orconnectable.

Preferably, an integrated accumulator is provided as a power supply 211and is (re)charged by an external charging device (not shown) via aconnection 211A and/or is interchangeable.

The analysis device 200 is preferably portable or mobile. Particularlypreferably, the analysis device 200 weighs less than 25 kg or 20 kg,particularly preferably less than 15 kg or 10 kg, in particular lessthan 9 kg or 6 kg.

The analysis device 200 preferably comprises a housing 212, all thecomponents and/or some or all of the apparatuses preferably beingintegrated in the housing 212 and/or arranged in the interior space 212Athereof.

Particularly preferably, the cartridge 100 can be inserted or slid intothe housing 212, and/or can be received by the analysis device 200,through an opening 213 which can in particular be closed, such as a slotor the like.

As already explained, the analysis device 200 can preferably befluidically and/or pneumatically linked or connected to the cartridge100, in particular to the sensor arrangement or sensor apparatus 113and/or to the pump apparatus 112, preferably by means of one or moreconnections 129.

Particularly preferably, the analysis device 200 is designed to supplythe cartridge 100, in particular the sensor arrangement and/or the pumpapparatus 112, with a working medium, in particular gas or air.

Preferably, the working medium can be compressed and/or pressurized inthe analysis device 200 or by means of the analysis device 200.

The analysis device 200 preferably comprises a pressurized gas supply214 in order to provide a pressurized working medium, in particular gasor air.

The pressurized gas supply 214 is preferably integrated in the analysisdevice 200 or the housing 212 and/or can be controlled or feedbackcontrolled by means of the control apparatus 207.

Preferably, the pressurized gas supply 214 is electrically operated orcan be operated by electrical power. In particular, the pressurized gassupply 214 can be supplied with electrical power by means of the powersupply 211.

The analysis device 200 and/or pressurized gas supply 214 preferablycomprises a connection element 214A, in particular in order topneumatically connect the analysis device 200 and/or pressurized gassupply 214 to the cartridge 100 and/or to the connection 129 orconnections 129.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the proposed analysis device 200 in theclosed state. The analysis device 200 or housing 212 preferablycomprises a housing part 212B that can be opened.

FIG. 6 is a schematic section through the analysis device in the openstate, i.e., when the housing 212 or housing part 212B is open. Theopening 213 in the analysis device 200 or housing 212 is therefore open.In this view, the cartridge 100 is inserted into the analysis device 200in part or received therein in part.

The analysis device 200 and/or pressurized gas supply 214 preferablycomprises a compressor 214B, in order to compress, condense and/orpressurize the working medium, in particular gas or air, and optionallycomprises an associated pressurized gas storage means 214C, as shownschematically in FIG. 6.

The analysis device 200 is designed to receive, position and/or hold thecartridge 100, in particular such that the cartridge 100 can be held ina clamped manner and/or can be mechanically, electrically, thermally,fluidically and/or pneumatically connected.

The analysis device 200 preferably comprises a receiving unit 230, whichis used in particular to receive, position and/or hold the cartridge100, a connection unit 231, which is used in particular to mechanically,electrically, thermally and/or fluidically connect the cartridge 100, anactuator unit 232 for actuating or forcing one or more valves 115A open,and/or a drive apparatus 233, in particular for moving or actuating thereceiving unit 230 and/or actuator unit 232.

The analysis device 200 preferably comprises a pneumatically operatedapparatus for holding, mounting, positioning and/or clamping thecartridge 100. In this case, said apparatus is formed in particular bythe receiving unit 230, the connection unit 231, the drive apparatus233, and optionally the actuator unit 232.

The analysis device 200 and/or drive apparatus 233 preferably comprisesan in particular pneumatically operated drive 233A, such as a pneumaticcylinder, and/or a gear mechanism 233B. Preferably, the drive apparatus233 or gear mechanism 2338 is operated, actuated and/or drivenpneumatically.

In the example shown, the gear mechanism 233B is preferably designed asa reduction gear mechanism and/or a gear mechanism having a variablereduction ratio, particularly preferably designed as a toggle levermechanism. In particular, the drive 233A acts on the toggle link orjoint 233C, as shown in FIG. 6, in order to convert the drive movementin the direction B1 into a driven or actuator movement in the directionB2. However, other structural solutions are also possible.

The direction B1 of the drive movement preferably extends transverselyor at least substantially perpendicularly to the direction B2 of theactuator movement and/or an opening direction B4, and/or at leastsubstantially parallel, but preferably in the opposite direction, to areceiving direction B3.

The gear mechanism 233B is preferably designed so that the reductionratio increases during a movement of the receiving unit 230 and/or theactuator unit 232 towards the connection unit 231. This means, inparticular, that the ratio of the force resulting in the direction B2 ofactuator movement and the force applied in the direction B1 of drivemovement increases during a movement in the direction B1 and/or thedirection B2.

In particular, the gear mechanism 233B or toggle lever mechanism ispreferably designed to increase the force exerted on the receiving unit230 and/or the actuator unit 232 during a movement of the receiving unit230 and/or the actuator unit 232 towards the connection unit 231, inparticular in the direction B2 of the actuator movement. In particular,the force exerted on the receiving unit 230 and/or the actuator unit 232increases as the receiving unit 230 and/or the actuator unit 232 comecloser to or are approaching the connection unit 231.

In other words, the resulting force in the direction B2 of actuatormovement and/or the force exerted on the receiving unit 230 and/or theactuator unit 232 at the end of the movement is preferably higher thanthe force at the beginning of the movement, in particular wherein theforce applied to the gear mechanism and/or on toggle link or joint 233C,preferably in the direction B1 of drive movement, is kept at leastconstant. It is, however, also possible that the resulting force in thedirection B2 is kept essentially constant, when the force applied in thedirection B1 of drive movement is or can be reduced during the movementor at the end of the movement.

The analysis device 200 preferably comprises a guide apparatus 234 formovably and/or slidably guiding the receiving unit 230 and/or actuatorunit 232 as shown schematically in FIG. 6. In particular, the guideapparatus 234 holds or guides the receiving unit 230 and/or actuatorunit 232 such that said receiving unit 230 and/or actuator unit can moveand/or slide relative to the connection unit 231 and/or in the directionB2 or in the opposite direction.

In FIG. 6, the actuator movement in the direction B2 is the movementtowards the connection unit 231, i.e. a closing movement or advancingmovement.

In the view according to FIG. 6, the receiving unit 230 has been movedaway from the connection unit 231. This constitutes the receivingposition in which the cartridge 100 can be received and then ejected orremoved. In FIG. 6, the cartridge 100 is partly received or slid in andis in a transfer position.

Once the receiving unit 230 has received the entire cartridge 100 andhas been moved together therewith towards the connection unit 231, i.e.when advancement or closing has occurred, the cartridge 100 ispositioned against or abuts the connection unit 231. In the following,this is also referred to as the test position of the receiving unit 230and cartridge 100.

The receiving unit 230 is preferably biased or pretensioned into thereceiving position, preferably by means of at least one spring 235.

The actuator unit 232 preferably comprises one or more actuators 205A,in particular in the form of fixed actuation elements or actuation pins,as shown schematically in FIG. 6. In the following, the moved-away orunactuated position of the actuator unit 232 as shown is also referredto as the initial position.

The actuator unit 232 is preferably biased or pre-tensioned into theinitial position, preferably by means of at least one spring 236.

The actuator unit 232 can be moved out of the initial position by meansof the drive apparatus 233 (relative to or) towards the connection unit231 and/or receiving unit 230 and/or in the direction B2.

The guide apparatus 234 preferably comprises at least one guide element234A, which is a guide rod in this case, for holding or guiding theactuator unit 232 and/or receiving unit 230 such that said actuator unitand/or receiving unit can in particular move linearly, in particular inthe direction B2 of the actuator movement or in the direction oppositethereto.

The guide element 234A is preferably supported or mounted, at one end,on the connection unit 231 and/or is held or mounted, at the other end,on an abutment or rack 237 or stop 237A of the analysis device 200.

The analysis device 200 or the receiving unit 230 preferably comprises alifting apparatus 238 in order for it to be possible for the cartridge100 to enter the receiving unit 230 in a preferably vertical directionor in a receiving direction B3 or receiving movement and/or in order forit to be possible for said cartridge to be ejected from or moved out ofsaid unit in the opposite direction and/or towards the top.

The receiving direction B3 preferably extends transversely and/orperpendicularly to the direction B2 of actuator movement or advancementmovement.

FIG. 6 shows the cartridge 100 in its transfer position. In saidtransfer position, the cartridge 100 that has not yet been used ismanually inserted into or transferred to the analysis device 200.

From the transfer position, the cartridge 100 is lowered and/or moved,by means of the lifting apparatus 238, into a position in which it is ina lower position and/or is received in its entirety in the receivingunit 230, as indicated by movement in the receiving direction B3.

FIG. 7 is a schematic section through the cartridge 100 that correspondsto the section in FIG. 6, in which the cartridge is in its position inwhich it has been received in its entirety, the actuator unit 232(still) being in the initial position and the receiving unit 230 (still)being in the receiving position, and the analysis device 200 or housing212 or housing part 212B (already) being closed.

In order to close the analysis device 200 or the (outer or housing-side)opening 213 in the analysis device 200, in the example shown, thehousing part 212B is moved or closed in a direction opposite to anopening direction B4.

The opening direction B4 preferably extends horizontally and/or inparallel with the direction B2 of the actuator movement or advancementmovement.

The opening direction B4 preferably extends transversely and/orperpendicularly to the receiving direction B3.

Once the cartridge 100 has been received or brought in in this mannerand the housing 212 of or the opening 213 in the analysis device 200 haspreferably been closed, the cartridge 100 or the receiving unit 230containing the cartridge 100 is moved, in a first step or period ofmovement, preferably towards the connection unit 231, in particularuntil the connection unit 231 and the cartridge 100 are connected in thedesired manner and/or are in abutment in the desired manner and/or untilthe cartridge 100 is positioned on or against the connection unit 231 inthe desired manner and/or until the cartridge 100 is clamped between theconnection unit 231 and the receiving unit 230 in the desired manner,i.e. until the receiving unit 230 and thus also the cartridge 100 havereached the test position. This state is shown in the schematic sectionaccording to FIG. 8 that corresponds to the section in FIGS. 6 and 7.

Thus, the receiving unit 230, the connection unit 231 and/or theactuator unit 232 preferably can be moved relative to each other and/oralong the direction B2 of the actuator movement (back and forth). Inparticular, the receiving unit 230 and/or the actuator unit 232 can bemoved in the direction of and/or relative to the connection unit 231, asexplained in greater detail in the following.

In the example shown, the connection unit 231 is preferably fixed and/orimmoveable and/or stationary, in particular allowing a simpleconstruction. However, it is also possible to design the connection unit231 so as to be moveable, for example similar or alternatively to thereceiving unit 230.

In the state shown in FIG. 8, the actuator unit 232 has preferably notyet been moved relative to the receiving unit 230, but has preferablyalready been moved relative to the connection unit 231. This position ofthe actuator unit 232 is also referred to as the intermediate position.

Preferably, when the receiving unit 230 or cartridge 100 is beingtransferred or moved into the test position and/or preferablyimmediately thereafter, at least one valve 115A of the cartridge 100 isactuated and/or opened in an automatic and/or forced manner.Particularly preferably, a plurality or all of the valves 115A that, inprinciple, have to be actuated and/or opened for the test and/or thatrequire a particularly high actuation force are actuated or opened in aforced manner. Said valves are actuated in particular by means of theactuator unit 232.

In a second step or period of movement or immediately after the testposition has been reached, the actuator unit 232 is preferably movedrelative to or into the receiving unit 230 such that the actuator unit232 ultimately assumes an actuation position, as indicated in FIG. 9, inwhich position the actuator unit 232 actuates, particularly preferablyforces open, the corresponding valves 115A of the cartridge 100 by meansof the actuators 205A of said actuator unit 232.

The spring 235 that is arranged or acts between the receiving unit 230and the connection unit 231 is also referred to as the first or weakerspring.

In particular, one end of the first spring 235 is supported on orcoupled to the receiving unit 230 and the other end of said spring issupported on or coupled to the connection unit 231.

The spring 236 that is arranged or acts between the actuator unit 232and the receiving unit 230 or connection unit 231 is also referred to asthe second or stronger spring. In particular, one end of said spring 236is supported on or coupled to the actuator unit 232 and the other end ofsaid spring is supported on or coupled to the receiving unit 230.

The springs 235, 236 are preferably installed in a pretensioned state,and therefore it can be ensured that the return movement into theinitial position, i.e. when the receiving unit 230 returns to thereceiving position and/or the actuator unit 232 returns to the initialposition, is in particular always reliable and/or automatic.

The first spring 235 is preferably designed and/or pre-tensioned so asto be weaker than the second spring 236, and therefore, during theadvancement movement in the direction B2, the receiving unit 230(together with the cartridge 100) is always initially (in the firststep) moved out of the receiving position (FIG. 7) into the testposition (FIG. 8) or towards the connection unit 231, the actuator unit232 already being moved together therewith during this movement,however, not relative to the receiving unit 230, but instead onlyrelative to the connection unit 231. Only thereafter, when the testposition has been reached, is the actuator unit 232 moved (in the secondstep) relative to the receiving unit 230 and/or relative to thecartridge 100, in particular brought closer thereto, in order for theactuator unit 232 to finally be moved out of the intermediate positionshown in FIG. 8 into the actuation position shown in FIG. 9.

The purpose of the first movement or the first step is in particular toreceive the cartridge 100 in a clamped manner, to position thecartridge, to firmly mount the cartridge and/or to connect thecartridge.

The purpose of the second movement or the second step is in particularto actuate or open preferably a plurality of valves 115A of thecartridge 100. However, the actuator unit 232 can, alternatively oradditionally, also be used for other purposes or forms of actuationand/or can be used to connect the cartridge 100 in further or otherways.

In the state shown in FIG. 9, the sample P is then tested. In thisstate, the cartridge 100 is connected in the necessary manner to theanalysis device 200 or vice versa. However, the test can, in principle,also start in an earlier state, in particular as shown in FIG. 8, forexample when it is not necessary to actuate valves 115A, when it is onlyoptionally necessary to actuate said valves or when it is only necessaryto actuate said valves in the (further) test sequence.

The springs 235 and 236 are preferably designed as helical or coilsprings.

The springs 235 and 236 are preferably of different spring hardnesses orspring stifnesses. In particular, the second spring 236 is harder orstiffer than the first spring 235.

The spring 235 and/or 236 is preferably associated with the guideapparatus 234 and/or preferably surrounds the guide element 234A.

In particular, the two springs 235, 236 are arranged coaxially withrespect to the direction B2 of actuator movement or advancement movementand/or with respect to the guide element 234A and/or are oriented suchthat their axes are in parallel with said movement direction B2 and/orsaid guide element 234A.

It is noted that, in the example shown, the actuator movement ispreferably at least substantially parallel to the advancement movementby means of which the receiving unit 230 and/or actuator unit 232 is/aremoved towards the connection unit 231, in particular both movementsbeing in the direction B2. However, in principle, these movementdirections can also extend obliquely to one another.

The drive apparatus 233 preferably acts on the receiving unit 230 eitherdirectly or indirectly.

In the example shown, the drive apparatus 233 preferably acts on thereceiving unit 230 only indirectly, since the drive apparatus 233engages in particular on the actuator unit 232 and acts on the receivingunit 230 by means of said actuator unit or a spring coupling, inparticular in order to bring about the desired advancement movement inthe direction B2 or movement relative to the connection unit 231.

The actuator unit 232 is thus used for moving the receiving unit 230relative to the connection unit 231, in particular in order to position,place or clamp the cartridge 100 on the connection unit 231, and/or foractuating or opening one or more valves 115A of the cartridge 100.

Preferably, the actuator unit 232 and the receiving unit 230 can bemoved together in the first period of movement or step and can be movedrelative to one another in the movement direction B2 in the secondperiod of movement or step, in particular in order to move the cartridge100 towards the connection unit 231 and in particular also in order toopen one or more valves 115A.

The actuator unit 232 can preferably be moved counter to or against aspring force, in this case counter to or against the force of thespring(s) 235, 236, towards the receiving unit 230 and/or connectionunit 231.

Preferably, just one single or common drive apparatus 233 is provided inorder to move or slide the receiving unit 230 and the actuator unit 232.This provides for a particularly simple, compact and/or robustconstruction.

Particularly preferably, the actuator unit 232 and the receiving unit230 perform a coupled movement, i.e. are motion-coupled, in this case bymeans of the springs 235 and 236.

However, some other type of coupling, for example that uses gears,levers or a slotted link or the like, can also be used or carried out.

The drive apparatus 233 preferably operates in one direction, in thiscase in the closing direction B2, counter to or against a spring force.The opposite movement or return movement into the initial position canbe performed in particular only by the spring force. This allows, forexample, for a single-acting cylinder to be used as the drive 233A.

The spring force by means of which the receiving unit 230 can be movedtowards the connection unit 231 is preferably smaller than the springforce by means of which the actuator unit 232 can be moved towards thereceiving unit 230. Therefore, the desired coupled movement or thedesired sequence of movements can be achieved in a simple manner,particularly preferably such that the cartridge 100 is initiallypositioned on, connected to and/or clamped on the connection unit 231and only after this are one or more valves 115A of the cartridge 100actuated or opened in a forced manner.

However, the coupled movement or the sequence of the two steps can alsobe achieved or solved by means of a different structure, optionally bymeans of just one single or common drive apparatus 233, as is the casein the preferred embodiment, or, alternatively, by means of separatedrive apparatuses for the different movements or steps.

The receiving unit 230 can preferably be moved relative to theconnection unit 231 by means of a motor, in particular pneumatically.

The actuator unit 232 can preferably be moved relative to the connectionunit 231 and/or receiving unit 230 by means of a motor, in particularpneumatically.

Valves 115A on the cartridge 100 are actuated in an in particularmechanical manner by the actuator unit 232 acting on the cartridge 100or the valves 115A thereof, in the actuation position, by means ofactuators 205A that are preferably fixed on the actuator unit 232. Inthis regard, the actuators 205A can optionally engage through aperturesor through holes in the main body 101 if the valves 115A are arranged onthe flat side of the cartridge 100 that is remote from the actuator unit232, as is the case in the example shown.

The analysis device 200 or housing 212 preferably comprises or forms arack 237 in order for it to be possible, for example, for the connectionunit 231, the drive apparatus 233 and the guide apparatus 234 to bereceived in or held by the rack 237.

The rack 237 or guide apparatus 234 or drive apparatus 233 preferablyforms a stop 237A, in order to limit the reverse movement of theactuator unit 232 and/or of the receiving unit 230 opposite to theadvancement movement B2.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the receiving unit 230 when it does notcontain the cartridge 100 and showing the actuator unit 232 arrangedtherebehind.

The analysis device 200 preferably comprises an opening apparatus 239for opening and closing the analysis device 200 or housing 212 or theopening 213, in particular by means of a motor and/or pneumatically.This is shown in FIG. 10.

The opening apparatus 239 preferably comprises a drive 239A, a gearmechanism 239B and/or a preferably frame-like support 239C. Inparticular, the support 239C is mounted and/or guided on the analysisdevice 200 or rack 237 or part thereof so as to be linearly movableand/or movable in the opening direction B4 or in the direction oppositethereto. The support 239C preferably supports the housing part 212B thatcan be opened.

By means of the opening apparatus 239, the housing part 212 can be movedpreferably linearly, in particular in order to open in the openingdirection B4 and in order to close in the opposite direction.

The gear mechanism 239B is preferably a toggle lever mechanism. However,other technical solutions are also possible.

The receiving unit 230 and in particular also the actuator unit 232 arepreferably held and/or guided on both sides or on opposing sides bymeans of the guide apparatus 234, respectively, so as to be movable inthe advancement direction B2 or movable in the opposite direction into amoved-away position. The arrangement for this movable guidance ispreferably the same on both sides, and therefore the arrangement on justone side is explained in greater detail in the following.

The receiving unit 230 preferably comprises a bearing portion 230A forbeing movably supported on the guide apparatus 234 or the guide element234A thereof. In particular, the bearing portion 230A forms or holds abearing lug or a bearing sleeve through which the guide element 234A isguided. However, other structural solutions are also possible.

The actuator unit 232 preferably comprises a bearing portion 232A forbeing movably supported on the guide apparatus 234 or the guide element234A thereof. In particular, the bearing portion 232A forms or holds abearing lug or a bearing sleeve through which the guide element 234A isguided. However, other structural solutions are also possible.

One end of the (first) spring 235 is preferably supported or mounted, onthe bearing portion 230A or a stop formed thereby, and the other end ofsaid spring is supported or mounted on the connection unit 231, inparticular on a bearing portion 231A of the connection unit 231.

The spring 235 is preferably received in part in the bearing portion230A and/or 231A and/or radially guided by means of said bearing portionand/or by means of the guide element 234A.

One end of the (second) spring 236 is preferably supported or mounted onthe bearing portion 230A or a stop formed thereby, and/or the other endof said spring is supported or mounted on the bearing portion 232A ofthe actuator unit 232.

The spring 236 is preferably received in part in the bearing portion230A and/or 232A and/or radially guided by means of said bearing portionand/or by means of the guide element 234A.

The guide element 234A preferably extends through the spring 235 and/or236.

The receiving unit 230 and the lifting apparatus 238 are preferablyarranged on both sides in the region of the narrow sides of thecartridge 100, which are in this case preferably vertically oriented,with the receiving unit 230 or lifting apparatus 238 on one side beingat least substantially identical to the corresponding unit or apparatuson the other side, respectively. Therefore the following descriptionrelates primarily to just one side.

The cartridge 100 is preferably held by the receiving unit 230 and/orlifting apparatus 238 only on the sides and/or on opposing sides, inparticular the narrow sides.

The receiving unit 230 and/or lifting apparatus 238 preferably comprisesa lateral, in particular groove-like, guide 238A and/or a retainingelement 238B, as shown in FIG. 10.

The guide 238A is designed in particular to receive the cartridge 100 inthe region of the edge 121.

The lifting apparatus 238 is designed in particular such that once thecartridge 100 has been manually slid in and/or received in part, saidcartridge 100 is subsequently lowered and/or completely brought in fromthe transfer position (shown in FIG. 6), i.e., said cartridge 100 isreceived in its entirety by the lifting apparatus 238 and/or receivingunit 230. The cartridge 100 is received and/or lowered in this manner bythe retaining elements 238B that are preferably arranged on theright-hand side and left-hand side or on both sides moving in acorresponding manner, in this case in the downward direction. FIG. 10shows the lowered or lower position of the retaining elements 238B. Inthis position, the entire cartridge 100 is then received in the guides238A or by the receiving unit 230, and therefore said cartridge 100 nolonger projects upwards beyond the guides 238A or the receiving unit230. This lowered position is shown in FIG. 7.

The lifting apparatus 238 and in particular the retaining elements 238Bthereof engage the cartridge 100 from behind and/or support saidcartridge from below. However, other structural solutions are alsopossible.

The lifting apparatus 238 is preferably driven by means of a motor andoperates in an in particular electrical or pneumatic manner.

The retaining elements 238B can be driven for example by means of leadscrews, a chain, a drive belt or the like.

The front 100A or the cover 102 of the cartridge 100 preferably pointstowards the receiving unit 230.

In particular, the receiving unit 230 has a contact surface for thecartridge 100, in particular the front 100A or cover 102 thereof, thatis at least substantially planar, flat and/or continuous, in order tosupport the cartridge 100 in the test position in as even a manner aspossible and/or over the largest possible surface area and/or in orderto hold and/or clamp said cartridge against the connection unit 231.

The receiving unit 230 preferably comprises or holds a printed circuitboard 221. The printed circuit board 221 preferably forms the contactand/or support surface for the cartridge 100 on the receiving sideand/or flat side.

The printed circuit board 221 is preferably rigidly connected or fixedto the receiving unit 230.

The receiving unit 230 and/or printed circuit board 221 preferablycomprises recesses 221A through which the actuators 205A or the actuatorunit 232 can act on the cartridge 100 in order to make possible thedesired actuation or opening of the valves 115A in the actuationposition, as shown in FIG. 9.

In the sense of the present invention, a printed circuit board (PCB) ispreferably a support or mount for electronic components, its purposebeing in particular to mechanically mount and/or electrically connectsaid electronic components. Typically, a printed circuit board comprisesa flat, planar element of an electrically isolating material, withconductive paths or tracks being arranged on said element. Inparticular, electronic components can be attached to the printed circuitboard, for example by soldering, and/or said components can beelectrically connected with each other by means of the conductive paths.

In the example shown, the actuator unit 232 preferably comprises aplurality of fixed actuators 205A, in particular two groups of actuators205A (right-hand side and center of FIG. 10) which actuate or openassociated valves 115A of the cartridge 100 in the actuation positionpreferably in a forced manner. Said actuators 205A and/or valves 115Aare in particular assigned to the storage cavities 108 in order to opensaid cavities.

Also large opening forces can be achieved by means of the driveapparatus 233, and therefore also valves 115A that close in aparticularly tight manner and ensure a high level of tightness and thusalso high storage stability can be used and initially opened.

The actuator unit 232 or the receiving unit 230 preferably comprisesactuators 205A that can be actuated independently of the movement of thereceiving unit 230 relative to the connection unit 231, independently ofthe movement of the actuator unit 232 towards the receiving unit 230and/or independently of one another, which actuators are shown in FIG.10 on the left-hand side of the printed circuit board 221 in the form ofthree adjacent pairs of pins, and are used in particular for opening thevalves 115A assigned to the receiving cavity 104 or other valves, asrequired. Said actuators 205A comprise separate drives (not shown) forindividual actuation. The inlet 104B, outlet 104C and intermediateconnection 104D can thus be opened as required and on an individualbasis.

The receiving unit 230 or printed circuit board 221 preferablycomprises, holds or supports one or more temperature-control apparatuses204, in particular the reaction temperature-control apparatus 204Aand/or the intermediate temperature-control apparatus 204B.

In particular, the temperature-control apparatuses 204 are generallyelectrically operated Peltier elements.

The thermal contact surfaces of the temperature-control apparatuses 204are in particular at least substantially in the plane of the contactsurface or on the flat side of the printed circuit board 221 that facesthe cartridge 100 or connection unit 231.

The receiving unit 230 or printed circuit board 221 preferably comprisesor supports the fluid sensors 206A, in order for it to be possible inparticular to detect flow fronts of fluids in the cartridge 100 in theassigned sensor portions 116 when the cartridge 100 has been received.

In particular, the printed circuit board 221 preferably has, on the sidethat is not visible in FIG. 10, all of the electrical componentsrequired for controlling the temperature-control apparatuses 204arranged on the printed circuit board 221 and/or the electricalcomponents of the fluid sensors 206 required for fluid detection and/ordetection of flow fronts.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the connection unit 231.

The connection unit 231 forms in particular an abutment or a contactsurface for the cartridge 100 in the test position. In particular, theconnection unit 231 comprises for this purpose corresponding contactsurfaces or support regions 231B that support the cartridge 100 in thetest position, preferably on the back 100B thereof.

The cartridge 100 is preferably positioned in a defined manner in thetest position. This can be achieved in particular by means ofcorresponding engagement with the receiving unit 230 and/or theconnection unit 231.

In the example shown, the connection unit 231 preferably comprises atleast one engagement portion 231C, which is designed in particular as arecess or depression, in order to receive an associated positioningportion 126 in the test position and to thereby position the cartridge100 in its main plane H.

Particularly preferably, two engagement portions 231C are formed on theconnection unit 231 that interact with the two positioning portions 126of the cartridge 100, in particular engage in the two positioningportions 126 in the test position.

Particularly preferably, one engagement portion 231C, in this case thelower engagement portion 231C, is in the form of an oblong hole, whereasthe other, in this case the upper engagement portion 231C, is in theform of a circular hole. This provides for optimum positioning, withoutthere being a force acting between the two positioning portions 126 thatcould lead to the cartridge 100 becoming jammed against the connectionunit 231.

The connection unit 231 preferably comprises the lateral bearing portion231A for the guide apparatus 234, in particular for receiving or bearingthe guide element 234A and/or for guiding, supporting or mounting the(first) spring 235.

Particularly preferably, on the two opposing sides of the connectionunit 231, bearing portions 231A of this kind are provided for the guideapparatus 234 that is arranged on both sides.

The connection unit 231 holds or comprises preferably one or moretemperature-control apparatuses 204, in this case in particular areaction temperature-control apparatus 204A and/or the sensortemperature-control apparatus 204C.

The reaction temperature-control apparatus 204A of the connection unit231 is preferably opposite the reaction temperature-control apparatus204A of the receiving unit 230, and therefore the cartridge 100 and/orone or more reaction cavities 109 are received, arranged and/or clampedbetween said two temperature-control apparatuses 204A such that thetemperature-control apparatuses 204A are positioned against or abut thecartridge 100 from opposing sides in the region of the reactioncavity/cavities 109. This allows the reaction cavity/cavities 109 to betemperature-controlled in an optimal manner. One of the twotemperature-control apparatuses 204A is preferably floatingly mountedand/or resiliently preloaded such that it is ensured that thetemperature-control apparatuses 204A are positioned against thecartridge 100 in an effective and/or reliable manner and/or over theentire surface thereof, and thus good thermal coupling is also ensured.

In particular, the temperature-control apparatus 204A of the connectionunit 231 protrudes towards the cartridge 100 such that said apparatusengages in the recess, depression or region 101E of reduced wallthickness of the cartridge 100. The reduction in this wall thickness ofthe main body 101 in the region of the reaction cavity/cavities 109 isadvantageous in that it allows improved thermal coupling and/or reducesthe thermal resistance between the temperature-control apparatus 204Aand a fluid in the reaction cavity 109.

The reaction cavities 109 also preferably have a very small crosssection perpendicularly to the main plane H, i.e. the cross section ofsaid cavities is very flat and said cavities have a surface extensionthat is at least substantially parallel to the main plane of extensionH, and therefore the height of said cavities is low perpendicularly tothe main plane H. This is conducive to good thermal coupling between thefluid in the reaction cavities 109 and the temperature-controlapparatuses 204A. The preferably flat design of the reaction cavities109 is shown schematically in FIG. 3.

The sensor temperature-control apparatus 204C shown in FIG. 11 ispreferably arranged and/or preferably projects such that, in the testposition, the cartridge 100 is positioned against or abuts, with thesensor apparatus 113 and/or a central region 113H between the contacts113E, the sensor temperature-control apparatus 204C. This produces athermal coupling in order for it to be possible to temperature-control,in the desired manner, a sensor compartment and fluids located thereinand reactions that are underway, in particular such that heat istransferred from the sensor temperature control apparatus 204C throughthe sensor apparatus 113 to a sensor compartment and fluids locatedtherein, or vice versa.

The connection apparatuses 203 or the contact elements 203A thereof arearranged in particular around the temperature-control apparatus 204C inorder to electrically connect or contact the sensor apparatus 113 or thecontacts 113E thereof.

The connection unit 231 preferably supports one, a plurality or all ofthe actuators 205B for actuating the assigned valves 115B of thecartridge 100. FIGS. 6 to 9 schematically show an actuator 205B of thiskind. It can be seen from FIG. 11 that a plurality of actuators 205B areprovided that can act on the cartridge 100 as required.

The actuators 205B are integrated in particular in a main body 231D ofthe connection unit 231. In the example shown, the main body 231D ispreferably constructed or assembled from a plurality of plates orplate-shaped components.

The connection unit 231 preferably supports or holds the pump drive 202.In particular, the pump drive 202 is also integrated in the main body231D, as shown in FIGS. 6 to 9 and 11.

In particular, a motor 202A of the pump drive 202 drives a pump head202B of the pump drive 202.

The pump drive 202 and/or pump head 202B points towards the cartridge100 and/or towards the receiving unit 230, and therefore the pump head202B can act on the pump apparatus 112 of the cartridge 100 in thedesired manner in the test position. In particular, a fluid (gas orliquid) can be conveyed in the pump apparatus 112 and thus in thecartridge 100 by rotating the pump head 202B. The pumping is thuscontrolled by operating the pump drive 202 and/or pump motor 202Aaccordingly.

The connection unit 231 also preferably comprises at least oneconnection element 214A, in this case two connection elements 214A, ofthe pressurized gas supply 214. The connection element 214A projects inparticular in the manner of a tube and/or is or can be fluidicallyconnected in the test position to an associated connection 129 of thecartridge 100.

The pump drive 202 or the pump motor 202A thereof and thetemperature-control apparatuses 204 are preferably operated electricallyand in particular supplied with electrical power by the power supply 211and/or controlled by the control apparatus 207.

A plurality of apparatuses of the analysis device 200, such as the driveapparatus 233, the opening apparatus 239, the actuators 205B and/or themeans for supplying pressurized working medium via the connectionelements 214A, are preferably controlled and/or operated by the controlapparatus 207 by activating corresponding valves and correspondinglysupplying pressurized gas or pressurized air from the pressurized gassupply 214.

Following a test, the measurement results are read out electrically fromthe sensor apparatus 113 and processed either in the analysis device 200or an external device.

Following the test, the used cartridge 100 is preferably ejectedautomatically.

In particular, the drive apparatus 233 is first taken out of or movedback from the actuated position, particularly preferably by means ofspring force. However, it is also possible for the drive apparatus to beactively moved back from said position and/or taken out of said positionby means of a motor.

Initially, the actuator unit 232 is preferably first moved away again inthe direction opposite the direction B2, preferably into theintermediate position. Alternatively, this can however occur at a laterstage, after the receiving unit 230 has been moved away from theconnection unit 231 and has in particular reached the receivingposition.

However, it is preferable if the receiving unit 230 is only moved awayor moved back into the receiving position after the actuator unit 232has assumed the intermediate position.

Subsequently, the analysis device 200 or the opening 213 opens. For thispurpose, the housing 212B is in particular moved in the openingdirection B4.

The cartridge 100 can then be removed. In particular, the cartridge 100is first ejected or moved out into the transfer position. This iscarried out in particular by means of the lifting apparatus 238. Theanalysis device is then in the state shown in FIG. 6.

Finally, the used cartridge 100 can be manually removed from thetransfer position and a new cartridge 100 (containing a new sample P)can be loaded for further testing.

If a new cartridge 100 has not been inserted or plugged in within aspecified period of time, the analysis device 200 closes preferablyautomatically.

If a new cartridge 100 is inserted after the analysis device 200 hasopened, the cartridge 100 is preferably moved automatically from thetransfer position into the position in which it has been received in itsentirety. For this purpose, the analysis device 200 preferably comprisesa detection means for detecting whether a cartridge 100 has beenreceived in part or inserted in part.

The analysis device 200 or the opening 213 closes in a preferablyautomatic manner only if no object, such as a cartridge 100 that hasonly been pushed part way in or, for example, an operator's finger, ispresent in the region of the opening 213. In particular, the analysisdevice 200 thus comprises a detection means for detecting objectslocated in the region of the opening 213 such that, if there is anobject in this region, the device is automatically blocked or preventedfrom closing.

For reasons of safety, the analysis device 200 preferably is firstclosed before the drive apparatus 233 is actuated and/or before thereceiving unit 230 is moved into the test position and/or before thecartridge 100 is mounted, positioned and/or clamped.

Individual aspects and features of the present invention and individualmethod steps and/or method variants may be implemented independentlyfrom one another, but also in any desired combination and/or order.

What is claimed is:
 1. An analysis device for testing a biologicalsample, comprising: a receivable cartridge having a plurality of valves,a receiving unit for receiving, positioning and/or holding thecartridge, a connection unit for mechanically, electrically, thermallyand/or fluidically connecting the cartridge to the receiving unit, andan actuator unit for mechanically actuating or forcing open one or moreof the valves of the cartridge, wherein the receiving unit is movablerelative to the connection unit in order to hold the cartridge at leastone of in a clamped manner between said receiving unit and saidconnection unit or connected to the connection unit or positioned onsaid connection unit, and wherein the actuator unit and the receivingunit are movable together in a first period of movement and are movablerelative to one another in a second period of movement.
 2. The analysisdevice according to claim 1, wherein the receiving unit comprises aprinted circuit board for directly supporting or clamping the cartridge.3. The analysis device according to claim 2, wherein the printed circuitboard covers at least essentially one flat or main side of thecartridge.
 4. The analysis device according to claim 1, wherein thereceiving unit comprises a printed circuit board for at least one ofelectrically or thermally contacting the cartridge.
 5. The analysisdevice according to claim 1, wherein the receiving unit is pneumaticallymovable relative to the connection unit.
 6. The analysis deviceaccording to claim 1, wherein the receiving unit is movable relative tothe connection unit by means of a motor.
 7. The analysis deviceaccording to claim 1, wherein the analysis device comprises a gearmechanism for moving at least one of the receiving unit or the actuatorunit relative to the connection unit.
 8. The analysis device accordingto claim 7, wherein the gear mechanism comprises a toggle levermechanism.
 9. The analysis device according to claim 7, wherein the gearmechanism is pneumatically actuated or driven.
 10. The analysis deviceaccording to claim 8, wherein a pneumatic drive acts on a joint of thetoggle lever mechanism in order to convert a drive movement in a firstdirection into an actuator movement in another direction, wherein thefirst direction of the drive movement extends transversely to thedirection of the actuator movement.
 11. The analysis device according toclaim 7, wherein the gear mechanism is a reduction gear mechanism. 12.The analysis device according to claim 11, wherein the gear mechanismhas a reduction ratio that increases during a movement of at least oneof the receiving unit or the actuator unit towards the connection unit.13. The analysis device according to claim 7, wherein the gear mechanismis adapted to increase force exerted on at least one the receiving unitor the actuator unit during a movement thereof towards the connectionunit.
 14. The analysis device according to claim 1, wherein the actuatorunit is adapted to move the cartridge towards the connection unit in thefirst period of movement and to open one or more valves during thesecond period of movement.
 15. The analysis device according to claim 1,wherein the actuator unit is movable counter to a spring force towardsat least one of the receiving unit or connection unit.
 16. The analysisdevice according to claim 1, further comprising a common guide apparatusfor movably guiding the receiving unit and the actuator unit.
 17. Theanalysis device according to claim 1, wherein the analysis devicecomprises a common drive apparatus for moving the receiving unit and theactuator unit relative to the connection unit.
 18. The analysis deviceaccording to claim 17, wherein the common drive apparatus comprises apneumatically operated drive.
 19. The analysis device according to claim1, wherein the receiving unit can be moved counter to a spring forcetowards the connection unit.
 20. The analysis device according to claim19, further comprising the actuator unit for mechanically actuating orforcing open one or more valves of the cartridge, wherein the actuatorunit is movable counter to a spring force towards at least one of thereceiving unit or connection unit, and wherein the spring force by meansof which the receiving unit is movable towards the connection unit issmaller than a spring force by means of which the actuator unit ismovable towards the receiving unit.
 21. The analysis device according toclaim 20, further comprising a common drive apparatus for moving thereceiving unit and the actuator unit relative to the connection unit,wherein the common drive apparatus acts on the actuation unit which, inturn, acts on the connection unit.
 22. The analysis device according toclaim 1, wherein the receiving unit comprises a firsttemperature-control apparatus and the connection unit comprises a secondtemperature-control apparatus, and wherein the first and secondtemperature-control apparatus are positioned against the cartridge fromopposing sides.
 23. The analysis device according to claim 22, wherein atemperature-control apparatus is floatingly and/or resiliently mountedand/or protruding outwards in order to engage the cartridge preferablyin a region of reduced wall thickness.
 24. The analysis device accordingto claim 1, further comprising a lifting apparatus for moving thecartridge in at least one of a vertical direction, transverselyperpendicularly to the direction in which the receiving unit is movedrelative to the connection unit.
 25. The analysis device according toclaim 1, further comprising a housing that is openable pneumatically orby means of a motor in order for the cartridge to be received and/orremoved.